Hartlepool United FC vs Leyton Orient - Billy Paynter doubtful for clash

Posted Saturday, November 14, 2015 by PA

Billy Paynter is a doubt for Hartlepool's televised clash with Leyton Orient on Sunday as he struggles with an Achilles problem.

Skipper Paynter was forced off during the first half of last weekend's 1-0 FA Cup victory against Cheltenham and will be assessed.

Carl Magnay returns to the squad after completing a six-game ban for spitting and fellow defender Scott Harrison has recovered from a hamstring strain.

Magnus Okuonghae may also be available after a foot injury but fellow loanee defender Luke Hendrie (ankle) is still out.

Teenage Orient goalkeeper Ben Grainger will make just his second league appearance as regular number one Alex Cisak is on international duty with Australia.

Defender Connor Essam is sidelined by an ankle injury and striker Paul McCallum is a long-term absentee with a knee problem.

Bradley Pritchard is available, however, after serving a one-match ban as Orient thrashed minnows Staines Town 6-1 in the cup.

Fellow midfielder Harry Lee, who was on the bench last weekend after being recalled from his loan at Welling, has now gone back to the non-league club.